Joe Blasko

I found this preview of John of Avila's life and writings to be fascinating. It displays the perennial issues and problems of the Catholic Church since its inception. And to think there were so many circumstances of his life that became obstacles for his insights to be recognized by the Catholic Church! That it took a thousand years before his life, preaching and writing would be finally recognized and accepted. The culmination of his contributions to establishing for priestly formation is timely. His grasp of Scripture, and suggesting and directing a path for the Church was finally acknowledge when he recently was made a Doctor of the Church!? In a way his life, thought, ministry, theological understanding and especially his teaching on spiritual direction and asceticism have been and are foundational to the Church's practice on all levels. It amazes me that it took so long for him to be recognized for his the grace filled work, insights and inspiration that he produced!